During your initial pelvic floor physiotherapy assessment, you can anticipate a comprehensive and personalized examination focused on assessing the health and function of your pelvic floor muscles. The session typically begins with a thorough discussion of your medical history, including any relevant issues such as pelvic pain, incontinence, or other concerns. The physiotherapist will then guide you through a series of questions to better understand your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. Following the discussion, a physical examination may be conducted, which could involve assessing muscle strength, flexibility, and coordination in the pelvic region. The therapist may employ external and internal techniques to evaluate the pelvic floor muscles more precisely. It’s important to note that the physiotherapist will prioritize your comfort and ensure clear communication throughout the process. After the assessment, they will discuss their findings with you, explain the proposed treatment plan, and address any questions or concerns you may have. Overall, your first pelvic floor physiotherapy assessment is designed to establish a baseline understanding of your pelvic health and lay the foundation for a targeted and effective rehabilitation plan.
Do I have to do an internal assessment?
No, you don’t have to do an internal assessment although findings from it are very useful in creating an appropriate treatment plan. For women we assess the pelvic floor either vaginally and/or rectally and in men we assess the pelvic floor rectally. We do not assess the pelvic floor directly in children. If this is something you’re uncomfortable with, your therapist will discuss other alternative options with you.
Is it painful?
No. Pelvic floor physiotherapy should not be painful. Your therapist will meet you where you’re at. That may mean that sometimes, we can’t assess the muscles fully at the first few appointments. .
How often do I need to come?
That depends on what you’re being treated for. At the end of your assessment, your therapist will discuss a treatment with a suggested frequency and timeline. These are based on best practice and typical tissue healing and strengthening time.
We understand that coming to pelvic floor physiotherapy can be uncomfortable and scary. We’re happy to answer any questions or concerns you have .